The selection of Jones as the parade marshal was a popular one, the launch was told.

“Nominations after nominations poured in for this individual,” said Ramona Westgate, Halifax Pride’s board chairwoman. “Scott has taken a personal tragedy and turned it into something very positive” with an awareness program against homophobia and transphobia, she said.

After the stabbing, Jones and friends established the Don’t Be Afraid campaign.

Jones, who’s in his late 20s, was stabbed in the back and had his throat cut after leaving a New Glasgow lounge last October. He has said he believes he was targeted because he’s openly gay. The young man is paralyzed and uses a wheelchair.